CLOUD FOREST OBSERVATORY
JAN–JUNE 2026 | KAʻŪ, HAWAIʻI | 4,500–4,600 FT
MAY 1, 2026 - 9:00 AM | ~4,550 FT
(KCFC)
OBSERVATION
Earthstar fungi (likely Geastrum spp.; family Geastraceae) identified approximately 2 ft below the soil surface, with multiple developmental stages present. Hygroscopic outer rays had reflexed outward, elevating the central spore sac above saturated soil layers. Specimens appeared positioned for imminent spore dispersal, potentially triggered by continued moisture input or raindrop impact.
INTERPRETATION
These observations are consistent with active fungal decomposition and conditions that may support mycorrhizal activity within saturated subsurface microhabitats.
MAY 29, 2026 - 5:09 PM | ~4,510 FT
(KCFC)
OBSERVATION
Standing dead koa (Acacia koa) monitored through fungal colonization and progressive wood decomposition. An ʻōhiʻa (Metrosideros polymorpha) seedling was documented emerging from a natural bifurcation within the decomposing parent tree alongside ongoing koa regeneration.
INTERPRETATION
Illustrates how decomposing trees create favorable microhabitats for native species recruitment. The coexistence of koa, ʻōhiʻa, and fungal communities reflects interconnected regeneration processes that support long-term forest resilience.
MARCH 30, 2026 - 1:25 PM | ~4,500 FT (KCFC)
OBSERVATION
Koa (Acacia koa) seedling emerging within a primary disturbed pathway beneath low-light cloud forest canopy conditions. Consistent vertical growth observed following emergence.
INTERPRETATION
Indicates successful koa establishment within compacted pathway soils, with observed phototropic growth and leaflet movement consistent with continued physiological function beneath dense montane cloud forest canopy cover.
MAY 1, 2026 — 9:00 AM | ~4,600 FT (KCFC)
OBSERVATION
Earthstar fungi (likely Geastrum spp.; family Geastraceae) identified approximately 2 ft below the soil surface, with multiple developmental stages present. Hygroscopic outer rays had reflexed outward, elevating the central spore sac above saturated soil layers. Specimens appeared positioned for imminent spore dispersal, potentially triggered by continued moisture input or raindrop impact.
INTERPRETATION
Reflects active fungal decomposition and probable mycorrhizal activity within saturated subsurface microhabitats, with hygroscopic dispersal structures responding dynamically to elevated moisture availability.
MARCH 30, 2026 — 1:25 PM | ~4,500 FT (KCFC)
OBSERVATION
Koa (Acacia koa) seedling emerging within a primary disturbed pathway beneath low-light cloud forest canopy conditions. Consistent vertical growth observed following emergence.
INTERPRETATION
Indicates successful koa establishment within compacted pathway soils, with observed phototropic growth and leaflet movement consistent with continued physiological function beneath dense montane cloud forest canopy cover.
MAY 29, 2026 - 5:09 PM | ~4,510 FT
(KCFC)
OBSERVATION
Standing dead koa (Acacia koa) monitored through fungal colonization and progressive wood decomposition. An ʻōhiʻa (Metrosideros polymorpha) seedling was documented emerging from a natural bifurcation within the decomposing parent tree alongside ongoing koa regeneration.
INTERPRETATION
Illustrates how decomposing trees create favorable microhabitats for native species recruitment. The coexistence of koa, ʻōhiʻa, and fungal communities reflects interconnected regeneration processes that support long-term forest resilience.